What’s on in Sydney in June 2026

June has become one of Sydney’s most exciting months thanks to the Vivid Sydney Festival. For the first two weeks of June, Circular Quay, The Rocks, Darling Harbour, and even Surry Hills transform into a wonderland of light installations, drawing visitors from across the globe.

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Major June Events in Sydney

Sydney comes alive in June with several major events drawing both locals and visitors to the city. From world-class light art to international film festivals, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Festivals and Fairs

June’s festival calendar covers a lot of ground — pop culture, Pride Month, live performance, and community events. Here’s what’s confirmed so far:

Pride Fest

June is Pride Month, and Qtopia Sydney’s Pride Fest brings together over 150 events celebrating LGBTQIA+ culture and history across the city. This year Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras is also running three fundraiser events across the month, marking the anniversary of the first Mardi Gras on 24 June 1978.

When: 1–30 June
Where: Various venues, Oxford Street Precinct
Cost: Various — check the Qtopia Pride Fest program for the full lineup

Après Gras

An afternoon-to-evening après-ski party at The Beresford with drag shows, a best-dressed competition, DJs, and a guest performance from Marcia Hines and Brendan Maclean. Julian Hamilton (The Presets) is on the decks.

When: Sunday 21 June, 3pm to 1am
Where: The Beresford, Surry Hills
Cost: $59 general admission, $69 members

Mardi Gras Trivia Night

A community trivia night focused on Mardi Gras history, with drag performances and prizes. Held at Paddo RSL, across the road from Paddington Town Hall where the first Mardi Gras Party was held.

When: Wednesday 24 June, 7pm
Where: Paddo RSL, Paddington
Cost: $32 general admission, $28 members

Rise Manly

Manly’s shops, restaurants, bars, and businesses team up for a 10-day winter festival across the Corso and laneways. Expect live street performances, light installations, artworks, and a one-night Cambridge Markets pop-up on Thursday 25 June (4pm to 9pm) on the Corso featuring 30 handpicked fashion, art, jewellery, and homewares stallholders.

When: 19 to 28 June 2026
Where: Manly Corso and laneways, Manly
Cost: Various — check hellomanly.com.au/rise-manly for the full program

Supanova Comic Con

This year’s Sydney Supanova has a strong guest lineup. Christopher Lloyd (Back to the Future), Anthony Daniels (C-3PO in every Star Wars theatrical release), Simon Pegg, Adam Savage, and Karl Urban are all appearing, alongside Lord of the Rings stars, Power Rangers favourites, Veronica Taylor (the original voice of Ash Ketchum), and Australian screen names including Nathan Jones, John Jarratt, and Lincoln Lewis.

The Level Up initiative makes its Sydney debut on Friday 19 June, with sessions aimed at students and emerging talent in gaming, technology, and the creative industries.

When: Friday, 19 June to Sunday, 21 June 2026
Where: The Dome, Sydney Showground, Sydney Olympic Park
Cost: Free for kids 12 and under. Tickets from $42.50. Find more information here.

Markets

Sydney’s June markets lean towards handmade and independent makers, with two established artisan events and a one-night pop-up as part of the Rise Manly winter festival.

The Coal Loader Artisans Market

The Coal Loader Artisans Market has established itself as one of Sydney’s premier destinations for handmade and locally crafted goods. This carefully curated market brings together emerging and established designers, artists, and makers in a unique heritage setting.

Browse stalls featuring art, ceramics, basketry, eco products, fashion, jewellery, textiles, food, and children’s designs.

When: Sunday 7 June 2026 (9am – 3pm)
Where: The Coal Loader Centre for Sustainability 2 Balls Head Drive, Waverton

Markers and Shakers Market

This curated marketplace celebrates the art of handmade, featuring 140 carefully selected stalls showcasing Sydney’s finest artisans and makers. Each vendor is chosen for their commitment to quality and sustainable production methods.

View of the Australian Made Market - Makers and Shakers

The market represents a shift away from mass production, championing traditional skills and craftsmanship. Visitors can discover unique homewares, fashion, accessories, and gourmet products while supporting local small businesses.

When: 13-14 June 2026
Where: White Bay Cruise Terminal – James Craig Road Rozelle
Cost: $6 – kids under 12 years free

Burwood Winter Market

A curated outdoor market in Burwood Park with fashion, homewares, art, jewellery, candles, and gourmet food stalls. Family-friendly with steady foot traffic through the day.

When: Saturday 13 June 2026, 9am to 3pm
Where: Burwood Park, Burwood Cost: Free entry l More info

Read about all the weekly markets in Sydney for more ideas

Theatre and Musicals

June is the perfect time to enjoy Sydney’s thriving performing arts scene. From celebrated musicals to thought-provoking dramas, there’s no shortage of entertainment for theatre enthusiasts this month. Below are some of the highlights gracing the city’s stages this month.

Anastasia

The Broadway hit musical makes its Sydney debut at the Sydney Lyric Theatre. Based on the story of Grand Duchess Anastasia Romanov and the 20th Century Fox animated film, the production follows a young woman named Anya piecing together her past against the backdrop of the Russian Revolution and 1920s Paris. Georgina Hopson leads as Anya, with Rhonda Burchmore and Nancye Hayes AM among the supporting cast.

Anastasia in Sydney

The costuming, staging, and lighting are spectacular, and the choreography is strong throughout. Not every song will stay with you, but the overall production more than delivers.

When: From 7 April 2026 (ongoing)
Where: Sydney Lyric Theatre, The Star
Cost: Adults from $69.90, concessions from $59.90 Bookings: anastasiamusical.com.au

Hair: The Musical

The tribal love-rock musical returns to Sydney following its Melbourne season, more than 50 years after it first played here in 1969. Set in 1960s America, it follows a group of young hippies navigating pacifism, free love, and the Vietnam War draft.

Australian production of HAIR, Credit Ben Fon
Australian production of HAIR, Credit Ben Fon

The score includes Aquarius, Good Morning Starshine, and Let the Sunshine In. Strictly limited season.

When: From 6 June – 12 July 2026. Tuesday to Sunday
Where: Theatre Royal, 108 King Street, Sydney CBD
Cost: From $69 (plus $9.50 handling fee) Bookings: hairthemusical.com.au

The Lion King

Disney’s flagship musical continues its season at the Capitol Theatre. Daniel Frederiksen plays Scar, Buyi Zama returns as Rafiki for the third time in Australia, and Nick Afoa — who made his Sydney stage debut as Simba twelve years ago — comes back as Mufasa. Aphiwe Nyezi takes on Simba, with Emily Nkomo as Nala and Jamie McGregor and Rutene Spooner as Timon and Pumbaa.

The Lion King Sydney 2026

Julie Taymor’s production has been running on Broadway for nearly 30 years and has been seen by over 127 million people worldwide.

When: From 18 April – 4 October 2026
Where: Capitol Theatre, Sydney
Cost: From $60 Bookings: thelionkingmusical.com.au

Savior

Filipino Australian playwright Happy Feraren’s world premiere comedy runs into June at Belvoir’s Downstairs Theatre. Inspired by Feraren’s experience working for NGOs in the Philippines, it follows Michelle, a local project officer who lands her dream role coordinating disaster relief for a slick American-run NGO — only to find rooftop parties replacing fieldwork and her new boss more charming than he should be. Sharp, funny, and drawn from first-hand experience.

Savior
Filipino Australian playwright Happy Feraren's world premiere comedy

Directed by Kenneth Moraleda and starring Chrissy Mae Valentine, Chaye Mogg, Mark Paguio, and Michael Whalley. Catch it in its final weeks.

When: Until 14 June 2026, Tuesday to Friday 7pm, Saturday 1pm and 7pm, Sunday 5:30pm
Where: Downstairs Theatre, Belvoir, Surry Hills
Cost: From $48 Bookings: griffintheatre.com.au

84 Charing Cross Road

Blazey Best and Erik Thomson lead this adaptation of Helene Hanff’s memoir about a decades-long postal friendship between a sharp-tongued New York writer and a reserved London bookseller.

Told entirely through letters exchanged across two decades and an ocean, the story unfolds against post-war rationing, royal coronations, and Beatlemania. Directed by Mark Kilmurry, with Katie Fitchett, Angela Mahlatjie, and Brian Meegan completing the cast. In its final weeks in June.

When: Until 13 June 2026, 2hrs 20mins including interval
Where: Ensemble Theatre, 78 McDougall Street, Kirribilli
Cost: $46 to $95 Bookings: ensemble.com.au

Prima Facie

Australian playwright Suzie Miller’s acclaimed one-woman play returns to Sydney in its original Australian production, with Sheridan Harbridge reprising her role and Lee Lewis directing. Tessa is a criminal defence barrister who believes in the system — until an unexpected event puts her on the other side of the witness box. Ninety minutes, no interval, and by all accounts it stays with you.

Seen by over 1.2 million people worldwide and winner of the Olivier Award for Best New Play in 2023. Strictly limited season.

When: 3 to 21 June 2026, 1pm and 7pm sessions
Where: Roslyn Packer Theatre, 22 Hickson Road, Walsh Bay
Cost: From $84 Bookings: roslynpackertheatre.com.au

The Roommate

The Australian premiere of Jen Silverman’s dark comedy stars Lucy Bell and Belinda Bromilow in a two-hander about two very different women who become unlikely housemates.

The Roommate cast photo ensemble theatre

Sharon is a recently divorced homebody who has never broken a rule; Robyn is a fast-talking New Yorker who has broken most of them. Directed by Lee Lewis. Recommended for ages 14 and over. Contains adult themes and occasional coarse language.

When: 19 June to 25 July 2026, 95 mins, no interval
Where: Ensemble Theatre, 78 McDougall Street, Kirribilli
Cost: $46 to $95 Bookings: ensemble.com.au

We Didn’t Start the Pyre

An immersive murder mystery set in the plague-ridden medieval village of Dork. Every guest receives a character role with hidden objectives, alliances, and secrets, then works with others to uncover clues, form alliances, and figure out what — or who — is behind the strange events unfolding around them.

Expect comedy, paranoia, terrible medieval medicine, and a lot of audience-driven chaos.

When: Saturday 6 June 2026
Where: HP Bowlo, Hurlstone Park
Cost: $49, includes character allocation Bookings: odysseytheatre.com.au

Mackenzie

From Yve Blake, creator of Fangirls, comes a darkly comic reimagining of Macbeth set in the world of early 2000s kids’ TV. Mackenzie is 13 and has just landed her first television role. When a geriatric make-up artist has a vision that she will become the number one pop girl in the world, her stage mum decides to make it happen at any cost. Directed by Virginia Gay. Contains adult themes and occasional coarse language. Recommended for ages 14 and over.

When: 11 June to 18 July 2026 (previews from 6 June), 95 mins, no interval
Where: The Neilson Nutshell, Pier 2/3, Walsh Bay
Cost: From $78

My Fair Lawyer

Sydney solicitor and playwright Tony Laumberg turns his satirical eye on the legal profession in this comedy from the Bondi Theatre Company.

When a young law graduate arrives on the doorstep of a prominent St Ives lawyer claiming to be his illegitimate daughter, the carefully ordered lives of Henry and Margaret Crowley begin to unravel. The season includes two Q&A sessions — one with the cast, one with the playwright.

When: 20 to 28 June 2026. Selected performances only — check the website for the full schedule
Where: Bondi Pavilion Theatre, Queen Elizabeth Drive, Bondi Beach
Cost: Check bonditheatrecompany.com.au for pricing

Dirty Rotten Scoundrels

This Tony-nominated musical comedy brings the 1988 film to the Hayes Theatre stage. Elegant conman Lawrence Jamieson and unpredictable hustler Freddy Benson compete on the French Riviera in a high-stakes game targeting a seemingly innocent American heiress. As their schemes escalate, nothing and no one proves to be quite what they seem.

When: Until 21 June 2026
Where: Hayes Theatre Co, Potts Point
Cost: $60 to $79

Film Festivals

Two film festivals run in June — the Sydney Film Festival across 12 days in the CBD, and the South African Film Festival which opens late in the month.

Sydney Film Festival

The 73rd Sydney Film Festival brings over 100 local and international filmmakers to Sydney for 12 days of premieres, Q&As, talks, and masterclasses. This year’s Official Competition jury is presided over by Oscar-nominated Brazilian director Kleber Mendonça Filho, whose most recent film won Best Director and Best Actor at Cannes 2025.

The Blue Trail - Australian premiere - The 2025 Berlinale Grand Jury Prize-winner
The Blue Trail – Australian premiere – The 2025 Berlinale Grand Jury Prize-winner

Two events worth booking separately: legendary Australian filmmaker Peter Weir (Gallipoli, Dead Poets Society, The Truman Show) takes part in an In Conversation at The Hub on Wednesday 10 June at 5:30pm, co-presented by AFTRS. Kleber Mendonça Filho delivers a filmmaking Masterclass on Saturday 13 June at 1:30pm. Both are ticketed and on sale now at sff.org.au.

The Closing Night Gala at the State Theatre on 14 June will announce the winner of the $60,000 Sydney Film Prize.

When: 3 to 14 June 2026 Where: State Theatre, Event Cinemas George Street, Dendy Newtown, Palace Central, Palace Norton Street, Hayden Orpheum Cremorne, Ritz Cinemas Randwick, Casula Powerhouse Arts Centre, and Art Gallery of NSW Cost: Various — flexipasses and individual tickets at sff.org.au

When:3 June – 14 June 2026
Where: The State Theatre, Event Cinemas George Street, Dendy Newtown, Palace Central, Palace Norton Street, Hayden Orpheum Picture Palace Cremorne, Ritz Cinemas Randwick, Casula Powerhouse Arts Centre and Art Gallery of NSW
More: Various — flexipasses and individual tickets at sff.org.au

South African Film Festival (SAFF)

The South African Film Festival returns for its 7th year, showcasing compelling stories from South Africa through both in-cinema and online screenings. The festival features award-winning films including South Africa’s Oscar submission “Old Righteous Blues” and the Oscar-nominated short “The Last Ranger.”

When: 21 June – 26 July 2026
Where: Select cinemas in Sydney and online
Cost: In-cinema: $20-45 Online options from $6-90 for a full festival pass. More: Visit the festival website

Music, Comedy and Dance

From free outdoor jazz to contemporary dance at the Opera House, June’s performance calendar has a wide range. Here’s what’s on across music, dance, and comedy this month.

Bangarra Dance Theatre: Sheltering

Australia’s leading Indigenous performing arts company presents a triple bill of works exploring First Nations perspectives on country, identity, and intergenerational connection.

Bangarra Dance Theatre

The program brings together three distinct pieces: Keeping Grounded, a exploration of our connection to ancestral land choreographed by Glory Tuohy-Daniell; Brown Boys, a visually poetic film by Daniel Mateo and Cass Mortimer Eipper exploring the experiences of young Indigenous men; and Sheoak, choreographed by Bangarra artistic director Frances Rings, drawing inspiration from the sheoak tree as a symbol of resilience and cultural identity.

When: 3 to 13 June 2026
Where: Joan Sutherland Theatre, Sydney Opera House
Cost: From $79k bangarra.com.au for availability

Jazz Sessions in The Rocks

Free live jazz returns to The Rocks Square every Thursday evening for its third year, curated in partnership with SIMA, which has supported Sydney’s jazz and improvising musicians for over 40 years. Sets run from 6:30pm to 8:15pm in an open-air setting among the cobblestone laneways. No bookings required.

A pop-up bar serves wine, cocktails, mulled wine, espresso martinis, and spicy mango margaritas. Nearby Pisa Slice offers a $10 pizza slice and soft drink combo on Thursdays.

June lineup:

  • 4 June: Magdalena Mira Quartet
  • 11 June: Murmations
  • 18 June: Driftwood
  • 25 June: Lisathe

When: Every Thursday in June, 6:30pm to 8:30pm
Where: The Rocks Square, The Rocks
Cost: Free

Karma Dance: Temple of Desire

Following sell-out seasons in Melbourne and Toronto, Karma Dance brings this award-winning production to the Sydney Opera House for two nights. Twenty dancers of South Asian descent, trained in the classical Indian dance form of Bharatanatyam, explore pre-colonial histories, queer and trans narratives, and the intersection of spirituality and sexuality.

Arul, from Temples of Desire
Arul, from Temples of Desire

Winner of the 2024 Melbourne Fringe Director’s Choice Award. The closing night includes an after-party in the Opera House foyer with DJ Goddess Naavikaran. Recommended for ages 16 and over. Contains smoke, haze, and brief nudity. Latecomers may not be admitted.

When: Thursday 4 and Friday 5 June 2026, 7:30pm. 50 minutes, no interval
Where: Sydney Opera House, Bennelong Point
Cost: A Reserve $88.50, B Reserve $78.50. Concessions available. Bookings: sydneyoperahouse.com

Chunky Move: U>N>I>T>E>D

Chunky Move returns to Sydney for the first time since 2022 with a new work presented as part of Vivid Sydney. Six dancers perform in animatronic exoskeletons, moving to a thunderous score by experimental Balinese artists Gabber Modus Operandi.

Chunky Move: U>N>I>T>E>D
Chunky Move: U>N>I>T>E>D

Artistic Director Antony Hamilton continues his exploration of body, machine, and spirit in what amounts to a 55-minute collision of contemporary dance, science fiction design, and live performance. Note: contains strobe lighting, haze, and flashing lights.

When: 11 to 14 June 2026, approximately 55 minutes, no interval
Where: Bay 20, Carriageworks, 245 Wilson Street, Eveleigh
Cost: From $44 (booking fee applies) Bookings: carriageworks.com.au

Scary Piece of Work

Sydney-based dancer and choreographer Martin del Amo returns to solo performance with a work that blends dance and spoken word to examine fear in its many forms.

Drawing on horror and noir film conventions, the piece weaves together pop culture and humour to explore how fear functions as both a concept and a lived experience.

When: 11 to 13 June 2026
Where: The Studio, Sydney Opera House
Cost: From $55 plus booking fee Bookings: sydneyoperahouse.com

Truck Driver

Jonny Hawkins performs as Bev, a fifth-generation long-haul trucker whose opinions, memories, and filthy jokes unfold over a 75-minute ride.

Jonny Hawkins portrait photographed at Coast to Coast heavy equipment, for promotion of 'Riding Shotgun' truck driver play
Jonny Hawkins portrait photographed at Coast to Coast heavy equipment, for promotion of ‘Riding Shotgun’ truck driver play

A portrait of Australian masculinity and echo chambers, co-created with director Nell Ranney. A companion piece to their critically acclaimed solo Maureen: Harbinger of Death.

When: 16 to 20 June 2026
Where: The Studio, Sydney Opera House
Cost: From $55 plus booking fee Bookings: sydneyoperahouse.com

NSW Secondary Schools Concerto Competition Final

Six young musicians who have battled through heats and semi-finals perform their selected concerto with the Ku-ring-gai Philharmonic Orchestra, competing for prizes up to $10,000. Now in its 42nd year, the competition has launched the careers of musicians including Simon Tedeschi and Alexander Gavrylyuk.

NSW Secondary Schools Concerto Competition Final

The 2026 finalists are Christina Bhang (Korngold Violin Concerto), Kiara Morishita-Lee (Mozart Flute Concerto), Jeffrey Dong (Chopin Piano Concerto No.2), Connie Liu (Sibelius Violin Concerto), Leon Spikmans (Bottesini Double Bass Concerto No.2), and Jaemin Yoo (Bartok Viola Concerto).

When: Sunday 28 June 2026, 3pm
Where: The Concourse, Chatswood
Cost: Standard $60 | Concession $45 | Junior/Child $30 | Family (4 tickets, max 2 adults) $150

Garry Starr: Classic Penguins

Garry Starr attempts to perform every Penguin Classic novel ever written. In an hour. Mostly naked (but with flippers). Fresh from a sell-out West End season and multiple festival wins including Most Outstanding Show at Melbourne International Comedy Festival 2025, this 70-minute sprint through the literary canon promises slapstick, chaos, and very little actual literary insight.

Gary Starr in Classic Penguins
Garry Starr

Ages 18 and over only. Contains full nudity, smoke haze, and strobe lighting. No photography or filming.

When: 16 to 28 June 2026, approximately 70 minutes, no interval
Where: Bay 17, Carriageworks, 245 Wilson Street, Eveleigh
Cost: From $54 (booking fee applies) Bookings: carriageworks.com.au

Australian Brandenburg Orchestra: Italian Serenatas

Italian baritone Renato Dolcini joins the Australian Brandenburg Orchestra for a program of Baroque music spanning Naples, Rome, Venice, and Florence.

Australian Brandenburg Orchestra

Led by artistic director Paul Dyer, the concert features works by Vivaldi, Corelli, Porpora, Caldara, and others, performed on period instruments.

When: 24, 26, 27 and 30 June 2026
Where: City Recital Hall, Sydney
Cost: Check brandenburg.com.au for pricing and session times

Sydney Dance Company: Engine

Sydney Dance Company returns to the Sydney Opera House with a triple bill uniting three choreographers. Rafael Bonachela premieres The Journey Itself Is Home, set to a score by Grammy Award-winning composer Bryce Dessner and inspired by 17th-century Japanese poet Matsuo Bashō.

Love Lock Credit: Pedro Greig
Love Lock Credit: Pedro Greig

Spanish choreographer Fran Díaz makes his Australian debut with The Mass Ornament, a study of collective and individual movement. Australian choreographer Melanie Lane brings back Love Lock, featuring costumes by Akira Isogawa and a score by UK electronic artist Clark.

Under-25 tickets are available at $35.

When: 24 June to 12 July 2026
Where: Sydney Opera House
Cost: $65 to $80, under-25s $35 Bookings: sydneydancecompany.com

Gravity & Other Myths: LOUDER

Award-winning Australian circus company Gravity & Other Myths bring their new production to the Joan Sutherland Theatre for its Australian premiere. Eight acrobats perform alongside a 22-piece ensemble from The Metropolitan Orchestra in a work that combines modern acrobatics with orchestral music.

The program includes Bach’s second Brandenburg Concerto alongside original compositions from Sxip Shirey and Quincey Grant.

When: 25 to 28 June 2026
Where: Joan Sutherland Theatre, Sydney Opera House
Cost: From $89 plus booking fee Bookings: sydneyoperahouse.com

TwoSet Violin: Sacrilegious Games World Tour

Australian violinists Brett Yang and Eddy Chen return to the Sydney Opera House Concert Hall with The Metropolitan Orchestra, conducted by Sarah-Grace Williams. Known for their YouTube channel with over 1.5 billion views, TwoSet Violin mix virtuosic playing with humour and irreverence.

Two_Set_Violin_Brett_Yang_Eddy_Che_c_The_Photo_Studio
The Photo Studio Glebe; Fashion; Abraham DeSouza;Brett & Eddy Two Set Violin

The program includes Vivaldi’s Four Seasons, the Sibelius and Tchaikovsky violin concertos, Paganini’s La Campanella, and Nicholas Ma’s Anti-Brainrot Concerto.

When: Tuesday 9 and Wednesday 10 June 2026, 8pm
Where: Concert Hall, Sydney Opera House
Cost: From $129 plus booking fee Bookings: sydneyoperahouse.com

Art and Exhibitions

The Archibald Prize headlines this month’s art scene, but it’s not the only exhibition worth visiting. Here’s what’s showing across Sydney’s galleries.

Archibald, Wynne and Sulman Prizes

The Archibald Prize is back and it’s still Australia’s most talked-about art competition. Since 1921, this portrait prize has captured Australian life and sparked plenty of debate about who should have won.

Packing Room Prize 2023 winner, Andrea Huelin Clown jewels © the artist, image © AGNSW, Jenni Carter
Packing Room Prize 2023 winner, Andrea Huelin Clown jewels © the artist, image © AGNSW, Jenni Carter

When: 9 May to Sunday, 16 August 2026
Where: Art Gallery of NSW, Naala Nura, our south building Lower level 2

World Press Photo Exhibition

The World Press Photo Exhibition returns to Sydney, showcasing striking global photojournalism and the power of visual storytelling. This internationally renowned exhibition brings together award-winning images selected from more than 59,000 entries across 141 countries, offering fresh perspectives on the world’s most pressing issues.

When: 23 May – 5 July 2026
Where: State Library of NSW l Cost: Exhibition entry is free

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Food and Drink Events

Sydney’s food scene springs to life in June with festivals and special events that let you taste your way around the city.

Paddy’s Twilight Market

Sydney’s iconic Paddy’s Markets is transforming Friday nights with its Twilight Market, a vibrant mix of food, shopping, and live entertainment. With more than 29 food trucks and vendors, this is a foodie paradise offering a taste of cuisines from around the world.

Meat over charcoal at Paddys Twilight market in Homebush
Arrive hungry when you visit Paddy’s Twilight Markets

Grab a bite of everything from Polynesian dishes to Sicilian wood-fired pizzas, Turkish street food, and Filipino charcoal-cooked delights. Beyond the food, you’ll find unique retailers, wholesale flowers, and acoustic live music to help you wind down your week.

When: TBC
Where: Sydney Flower Market car park, 250 Parramatta Road, Homebush West NSW
Cost: $2 parking per vehicle

Family and Outdoor Events

June is one of the better months for being outdoors in Sydney. The weather is cool and clear, whale watching is at its peak, and the coastal walks are far less crowded than summer. There is also a solid lineup of family-friendly events in June, from free skating sessions to after-dark experiences in Western Sydney.

Skate!

Carriageworks transforms its precinct into a fully equipped skate park with ramps, workshops, open sessions, and pro skater demonstrations.

Skate! at Carriageworks Credit: Jacquie Manning
Skate! at Carriageworks Credit: Jacquie Manning

Open to ages 6 and up, whether it’s a first time on a board or working on tricks. Bring your own skateboard and safety gear if you have them — limited equipment is available on the day. Register in advance and arrive 15 minutes early to sign the waiver. Parents and guardians must sign for under-18s.

When: Saturday 6 June 2026
Where: Carriageworks, 245 Wilson Street, Eveleigh
Cost: Free – registration required

GLOW at Sydney Zoo

Now in its fifth year, this after-dark trail through Sydney Zoo features large-scale light installations, immersive soundscapes, and interactive elements across an expanded night trail. The Luna Light Journey, created by Laservision, is the signature experience.

A free-entry carnival precinct at the zoo entrance is open to both ticket holders and the wider community. In its final two weeks in June — book early as previous years have sold out.

When: Until 14 June 2026, selected evenings
Where: Sydney Zoo, Bungarribee, Western Sydney
Cost: Adults from $35 midweek, $39 weekends. Children (3 to 15) $19.99

Whale Watching Season

June is peak whale watching season, and Sydney offers incredible opportunities to catch a glimpse of these majestic creatures as they migrate north along the coast. Join a whale-watching cruise or head to one of the many coastal lookouts for a chance to spot them.

whale watching sydney harbour
Whale Watching in Sydney – we spotted this on our last cruise

Top viewing locations include North Head Lookout, Watsons Bay, and Cape Solander in Kamay Botany Bay National Park. No matter where you watch, it’s an unforgettable outdoor experience.

When: June through to early November
Where: Coastal lookouts and whale-watching cruises throughout Sydney
Cost: Free at lookouts; cruise prices vary

Coastal Walks

Sydney’s stunning coastline is best explored during the cooler months, and June is perfect for some of the city’s most popular walking trails. From Bondi to Coogee to the Spit Bridge to Manly, these walks offer breathtaking views, fresh sea air, and a chance to connect with nature.

The start of Henry Head walk
The Henry Head walk in South Eastern Sydney

Pack water and comfortable shoes, and don’t forget your camera for those postcard-worthy views along the way. Look out for whale spotting opportunities on elevated sections of the trails!

When: All month
Where: Various coastal trails, including Bondi to Coogee and Spit Bridge to Manly
Cost: Free
More info: Visit our walks page for ideas

Free Outdoor Training: City to Surf Preparation

Three free coached running sessions run weekly across the harbour foreshore, all starting at 7am.

  • Mondays: Darling Harbour — coached session with warm-ups, drills, and intervals. Meet at Village Green South
  • Tuesdays: The Rocks — group sessions for all levels led by Active Live trainers. Meet at First Fleet Park
  • Fridays: Barangaroo — foreshore run with coaching tips. Meet at Hickson Park

When: Every Monday, Tuesday, and Friday, 7am Cost: Free

Yoga on Country

Weekly outdoor yoga sessions guided by local Elder Jacqui Jarrett, blending traditional First Nations cultural practices with breath, movement, and connection.

free yoga at Barangaroo every Monday

When: Every Monday, 12pm Where: Stargazer Lawn, Barangaroo Reserve Cost: Free

Regional Events Near Sydney

Some of the best events this month are happening just outside Sydney. These regional festivals and celebrations make perfect day trips or weekend getaways.

A Day Well Spent – Funk and Soul Weekend, Berry NSW

Berry’s multi-venue live music series returns for a Funk and Soul weekend, with performances spread across the village at The Berry Hotel, Great Southern Hotel, Il Locale, Albert St Caffé, Le Bar, The Rutledge, The Garden, and The Berry General Store.

Frank Sultana Blues Band
Frank Sultana Blues Band

Curated by South Coast live music collective Holy Pavlova, the Sunday session runs midday through to evening with audiences moving between venues. Participating accommodation providers are offering a three-nights-for-the-price-of-two deal for visitors who want to extend the trip.

When: Thursday 18 and Sunday 21 June 2026
Where: Various venues, Berry NSW
Cost: Check extendtheweekend.berry.org.au for full program and ticket details

Henry Lawson Festival of the Arts – Grenfell

Head to Grenfell for a weekend celebrating one of Australia’s most iconic poets, Henry Lawson. From live performances to street parades, this festival offers a mix of creativity, culture, and community spirit.

When: June long weekend
Where: Grenfell NSW Cost: Most events free.
More details on the official site

The Sussex Inlet Viking Festival 

Step back in time and experience the excitement of the Sussex Inlet Viking Festival, where history, culture, and fun collide. This unique festival celebrates Viking life with re-enactments, Scandinavian cuisine, and traditional crafts.

When: Saturday 6 June 2026
Where: Ellmoos Reserve, Sussex Inlet, NSW

Ask a Local

Follow our Facebook Page or join the group now for advice, tips and the latest Sydney events.

Start planning things to do in July or read through of our list of things to do on rainy days if we hit a patch of bad weather.

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2 Comments

  1. l nossiter says:

    the afl matches listed are wrong. sydney dont play brisbane on june 8th at scg

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